While deciding which college to attend, one must choose to either live in the dorm community or commute to school on a daily basis. Traditionally the majority of students have chosen to live in dormitories, but with the dramatic increase in college tuition many are forced to commute in order to remain financially stable. This article is based off an interview with Johann Espinosa, who goes to a middle sized college, regarding academic and social life as a commuter student.
3. Social Atmosphere
The stereotypical commuter student is one who goes college solely for the academic experience and does not engage in the social realms of college life. It is hard for commuters to integrate into the social atmosphere, but ultimately the social scene is “what you make of it.” Commuters need to try exceptionally harder than dorm residents to meet new people as a result of not having a “dorm family.” Instead of meeting people in dorms, they need to put themselves into social areas, such as the food courts, in hopes of seeing familiar faces and meeting new people. Occasionally while trying to meet new people, they are brushed off by “snobby” individuals, but most people are “inviting and nice.” While keeping the mentality that “everyone wants to make friends,” it becomes easier to be outgoing and social.
Unfortunately, there is a negative connotation associated with commuter students resulting from the stereotype that they are not capable of socializing. While meeting new people they are constantly given weird looks and questions asking “WHY WOULD YOU EVER WANT TO COMMUTE.” These questions become bothersome because many do not understand that others cannot afford the financial burden associated with paying to live in dormitories. They are also faced with blatant ignorance; sometimes commuters will be socially outcasted solely because they commute, making many wonder “why would you completely disregard someone based on where they live.”
